Blueberry jam

Blueberry Jam – a sweet and aromatic treat

Blueberry jam is a true delight, a preparation that perfectly combines the sweetness of sugar with the natural acidity of blueberries, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. This simple yet exceptionally tasty recipe is a wonderful way to preserve these marvelous fruits, thus enriching winter meals with summer flavors. Moreover, blueberries are known for their nutritional benefits, being rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. So, let’s embark on this culinary adventure!

Total time: 24-48 hours (including maceration time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 8 jars of 400 g

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 kg fresh blueberries
- 2 kg granulated sugar
- juice from 1 lemon (approximately 50 ml)

Preparing the blueberry jam

Step 1: Preparing the blueberries
Start by washing the blueberries thoroughly under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove all impurities and stems. Use a sieve or a flat-bottomed container to drain them well. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and delicious jam.

Step 2: Macerating the blueberries
In a large pot, place a layer of blueberries, followed by a generous layer of sugar. Continue to alternate layers of blueberries and sugar until all ingredients are used. Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours. It is important to stir periodically so that the sugar dissolves evenly and forms a natural syrup. This maceration process helps to intensify flavors and achieve a rich syrup.

Step 3: Separating the syrup
After the sugar has completely dissolved, you will notice that a delicious syrup has formed. Use a sieve to strain the syrup, leaving the blueberries in a separate pot. Make sure to keep enough syrup to cover the fruits during cooking. The resulting syrup can be used to sweeten other dishes or beverages.

Step 4: Cooking the jam
In a double-bottomed pot (to avoid burning), add the blueberries, strained syrup, and the juice of one lemon. The lemon not only adds a note of freshness but also helps preserve the color and texture of the jam. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Boil the mixture for 30-40 minutes until the syrup thickens and becomes sticky.

Step 5: Consistency test
To check if the jam is ready, place a teaspoon of the mixture on a cold plate and let it cool. If after a few minutes it does not run and has a thick texture, it is a sign that the jam is perfect. If it is still too liquid, continue to boil it for a few more minutes.

Step 6: Bottling
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, fill sterilized jars with the hot jam. Make sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion. Seal the jars with airtight lids and cover them with a blanket to cool slowly. This helps create a vacuum, which will extend the shelf life of the jam.

Serving suggestions
Blueberry jam is perfect for breakfast, spread on a slice of toast or alongside fluffy pancakes. It can also be used as a topping for yogurt or cheese, transforming a simple dessert into a culinary masterpiece. Share the jam with friends and family, offering it as a personalized gift in beautifully decorated jars.

Recipe variations
For a unique touch, you can add a few fresh mint leaves during cooking to give the jam a fresh taste. You can also experiment with other ingredients, such as cinnamon or a splash of vanilla, to transform the jam into a truly special treat.

Nutritional benefits
Blueberries are an excellent source of antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. They are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, thus contributing to a balanced diet. Additionally, blueberry jam can add a touch of health to your meals, being a healthier alternative to processed desserts.

Frequently asked questions
1. How can I sterilize the jars?
To sterilize the jars, wash them with warm water and detergent, then rinse them well. Place them in a tray and put them in the oven at 120°C for 15-20 minutes or boil them in water for 10 minutes.

2. Can I use other fruits instead of blueberries?
Of course! You can experiment with raspberries, blackberries, or even strawberries. Each fruit will bring a unique flavor.

3. What is the shelf life of blueberry jam?
If stored properly, in a dark and cool place, blueberry jam can be consumed for 1-2 years.

With this blueberry jam recipe, you will manage to bring summer to your plate even on the coldest winter days. Happy cooking and enjoy every spoonful of this delicacy!